Fluoropolymer membrane for electrochemical devices

ABSTRACT

The present invention pertains to a membrane for an electrochemical device, to a process for manufacturing said membrane and to use of said membrane in a process for manufacturing an electrochemical device.

This application claims priority to European application No. EP 16305721.9 filed on Jun. 14, 2016, the whole content of this application being incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention pertains to a membrane for an electrochemical device, to a process for manufacturing said membrane and to use of said membrane in a process for manufacturing an electrochemical device.

BACKGROUND ART

Fluoropolymers and, in particular, vinylidene fluoride polymers are used in a wide variety of applications including electrochemical applications.

For instance, fluoropolymers are advantageously used as raw materials in the manufacture of polymer membranes suitable for use in electrochemical devices such as secondary batteries because of their chemical and thermal aging resistance.

Alkaline or alkaline-earth secondary batteries are typically formed by assembling a positive electrode (cathode), a ion conducting membrane and a negative electrode (anode). The ion conducting membrane, often referred to as separator, plays a crucial role in the battery as it must provide for a high ionic conductivity while ensuring effective separation between the opposite electrodes.

The ion conducting membrane is typically a gelled polymer electrolyte containing a metal salt, especially a Lithium salt.

Hybridization of organic and inorganic compounds is an important and evolutionary way to create polymeric compounds having, notably, enhanced mechanical properties. To elaborate such organic-inorganic polymer hybrids, sol-gel processes using metal alkoxides is the most useful and important approach. By properly controlling the reaction conditions of hydrolysis and condensation of metal alkoxydes, in particular of alkoxysilanes (e.g. tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) or tetraethoxysilane (TEOS)), in the presence of pre-formed organic polymers, it is possible to obtain hybrids with improved properties compared to the original compounds.

Within this scenario, WO 2011/121078 (SOLVAY SOLEXIS S.P.A.) Oct. 6, 2011 discloses certain fluoropolymer-based hybrid organic/inorganic composites wherein covalent bonds connect fluoropolymer chains to the inorganic domains, said composites being obtained by a process involving the reaction of certain functional fluoropolymers having hydroxyl groups with certain hydrolysable compounds of Si, Ti or Zr, and subsequent hydrolysis and polycondensation of said compounds.

This patent document also mentions that the so obtained hybrid organic/inorganic composites can be notably used for the manufacture of membranes for electrochemical applications and more particularly as separators for Lithium ion batteries.

However, there is thus still the need in the art for membranes suitable for use in electrochemical devices exhibit outstanding capacity values, in particular in secondary batteries such as Lithium ion batteries.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

It has been now surprisingly found that an electrochemical device, especially a secondary battery, can be easily manufactured by using the membrane of the invention while avoiding use of liquid electrolytes.

It has been also surprisingly found that the electrochemical device of the invention advantageously exhibits good electrochemical performances and, according to certain embodiments, also good mechanical flexibility.

In a first instance, the present invention pertains to a membrane for an electrochemical device, said membrane consisting of:

-   -   at least one fluoropolymer [polymer (F)], and     -   a liquid medium [medium (L)].

The membrane for an electrochemical device of the invention preferably consists of:

-   -   at least one fluoropolymer hybrid organic/inorganic composite         [polymer (F-h)], and     -   a liquid medium [medium (L)].

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “membrane” is intended to denote a discrete, generally thin, interface which moderates permeation of chemical species in contact with it. This interface may be homogeneous, that is, completely uniform in structure (dense membrane), or it may be chemically or physically heterogeneous, for example containing voids, pores or holes of finite dimensions (porous membrane).

The membrane of the present invention is advantageously free from one or more metal salts and, optionally, one or more additives.

The membrane of the present invention is advantageously free from one or more metal salts including, but not limited to, one or more metal salts selected from the group consisting of:

(a) MeI, Me(PF₆)_(n), Me(BF₄)_(n), Me(ClO₄)_(n), Me(bis(oxalato)borate)_(n) (“Me(BOB)_(n)”), MeCF₃SO₃, Me[N(CF₃SO₂)₂]_(n), Me[N(C₂F₅SO₂)₂]_(n), Me[N(CF₃SO₂)(R_(F)SO₂)]_(n), wherein R_(F) is C₂F₅, C₄F₉ or CF₃OCF₂CF₂, Me(AsF₆)_(n), Me[C(CF₃SO₂)₃]_(n), Me₂S_(n), wherein Me is a metal, preferably a transition metal, an alkaline metal or an alkaline-earth metal, more preferably Me being Li, Na, K or Cs, even more preferably Me being Li, and n is the valence of said metal, typically n being 1 or 2,

wherein R′_(F) is selected from the group consisting of F, CF₃, CHF₂, CH₂F, C₂HF₄, C₂H₂F₃, C₂H₃F₂, C₂F₅, C₃F₇, C₃H₂F₅, C₃H₄F₃, C₄F₉, C₄H₂F₇, C₄H₄F₅, C₅F₁₁, C₃F₅OCF₃, C₂F₄OCF₃, C₂H₂F₂OCF₃ and CF₂OCF₃, and (c) combinations thereof.

The membrane of the present invention is also advantageously free from one or more additives including, but not limited to, one or more additives selected from the group consisting of vinylene carbonate, vinyl ethylene carbonate, allyl ethyl carbonate, vinyl acetate, divinyl adipate, acrylic acid nitrile, 2-vinyl pyridine, maleic anhydride, methyl cinnamate, alkyl phosphonates, and vinyl-containing silane-based compounds.

In a second instance, the present invention pertains to a process for the manufacture of a membrane.

According to a first preferred embodiment of the invention, the process for the manufacture of a membrane typically comprises hydrolysing and/or condensing a composition comprising, preferably consisting of:

-   -   at least one fluoropolymer [polymer (F)],     -   at least one metal compound [compound (M1)] of formula (I):

X_(4-m)AY_(m)  (I)

wherein m is an integer from 1 to 4, A is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, Y is a hydrolysable group and X is a hydrocarbon group, optionally comprising one or more functional groups, and

-   -   a liquid medium [medium (L)].

The membrane of the invention is advantageously obtainable by the process according to this first preferred embodiment of the invention.

The selection of the hydrolysable group Y of the compound (M1) of formula (I) as defined above is not particularly limited provided that it enables under appropriate conditions the formation of a —O-A≡ bond. The hydrolysable group Y of the compound (M1) of formula (I) as defined above is typically selected from the group consisting of halogen atoms, preferably being a chlorine atom, hydrocarboxy groups, acyloxy groups and hydroxyl groups.

In case the compound (M1) of formula (I) as defined above comprises at least one functional group on group X, it will be designated as functional compound (M1); in case none of groups X of the compound (M1) of formula (I) as defined above comprise a functional group, the compound (M1) of formula (I) as defined above will be designated as non-functional compound (M1).

The compound (M1) is preferably of formula (I-A):

R^(A) _(4-m)A(OR^(B))_(m)  (I-A)

wherein m is an integer from 1 to 4, and, according to certain embodiments, from 1 to 3, A is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, R^(A) and R^(B), equal to or different from each other and at each occurrence, are independently selected from C₁-C₁₈ hydrocarbon groups, wherein R^(A) optionally comprises at least one functional group.

Non-limiting examples of functional groups include, notably, epoxy group, carboxylic acid group (in its acid, ester, amide, anhydride, salt or halide form), sulphonic group (in its acid, ester, salt or halide form), hydroxyl group, phosphoric acid group (in its acid, ester, salt, or halide form), thiol group, amine group, quaternary ammonium group, ethylenically unsaturated group (like vinyl group), cyano group, urea group, organo-silane group, aromatic group.

Should the compound (M1) of formula (I) as defined above be a functional compound (M1), it is more preferably of formula (I-B):

R^(A′) _(4-m)A(OR^(B′))_(m)  (I-B)

wherein m is an integer from 1 to 3, A is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, R^(A′), equal to or different from each other and at each occurrence, is a C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbon group comprising at least one functional group and R^(B′), equal to or different from each other and at each occurrence, is a C₁-C₅ linear or branched alkyl group, preferably R^(B′) being a methyl or ethyl group.

Examples of functional compounds (M1) are notably vinyltriethoxysilane, vinyltrimethoxysilane, vinyltrismethoxyethoxysilane of formula CH₂═CHSi(OC₂H₄OCH₃)₃, 2-(3,4-epoxycyclohexylethyltrimethoxysilane) of formula:

glycidoxypropylmethyldiethoxysilane of formula:

glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane of formula:

methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane of formula:

aminoethylaminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane of formula:

aminoethylaminopropyltrimethoxysilane of formula:

H₂NC₂H₄NHC₃H₆Si(OCH₃)₃

3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, 3-phenylaminopropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-chloroisobutyltriethoxysilane, 3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-mercaptopropyltriethoxysilane, 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane, n-(3-acryloxy-2-hydroxypropyl)-3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane, (3-acryloxypropyl)dimethylmethoxysilane, (3-acryloxypropyl)methyldichlorosilane, (3-acryloxypropyl)methyldimethoxysilane, 3-(n-allylamino)propyltrimethoxysilane, 2-(4-chlorosulfonylphenyl)ethyltrimethoxysilane, 2-(4-chlorosulphonylphenyl)ethyl trichlorosilane, carboxyethylsilanetriol, and its sodium salts, triethoxysilylpropylmaleamic acid of formula:

3-(trihydroxysilyl)-1-propane-sulphonic acid of formula HOSO₂—CH₂CH₂CH₂—Si(OH)₃, N-(trimethoxysilylpropyl)ethylene-diamine triacetic acid, and its sodium salts, 3-(triethoxysilyl)propylsuccinic anhydride of formula:

acetamidopropyltrimethoxysilane of formula H₃C—C(O)NH—CH₂CH₂CH₂—Si(OCH₃)₃, alkanolamine titanates of formula Ti(L)_(X)(OR)_(Y), wherein L is an amine-substituted alkoxy group, e.g. OCH₂CH₂NH₂, R is an alkyl group, and x and y are integers such that x+y=4.

Examples of non-functional compounds (M1) are notably trimethoxysilane, triethoxysilane, tetramethoxysilane, tetraethoxysilane (TEOS), tetramethyltitanate, tetraethyltitanate, tetra-n-propyltitanate, tetraisopropyltitanate, tetra-n-butyltitanate, tetra-isobutyl titanate, tetra-tert-butyl titanate, tetra-n-pentyltitanate, tetra-n-hexyltitanate, tetraisooctyltitanate, tetra-n-lauryl titanate, tetraethylzirconate, tetra-n-propylzirconate, tetraisopropylzirconate, tetra-n-butyl zirconate, tetra-sec-butyl zirconate, tetra-tert-butyl zirconate, tetra-n-pentyl zirconate, tetra-tert-pentyl zirconate, tetra-tert-hexyl zirconate, tetra-n-heptyl zirconate, tetra-n-octyl zirconate, tetra-n-stearyl zirconate.

According to a second preferred embodiment of the invention, the process for the manufacture of a membrane typically comprises hydrolysing and/or condensing a composition comprising, preferably consisting of:

-   -   at least one functional fluoropolymer [functional polymer (F)]         comprising recurring units derived from at least one functional         hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group,     -   at least one metal compound [compound (M2)] of formula (II):

X′_(4-m)A′Y′_(m′)  (II)

wherein m′ is an integer from 1 to 3, A′ is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, Y′ is a hydrolysable group and X′ is a hydrocarbon group comprising at least one —N═C═O functional group,

-   -   optionally, at least one metal compound [compound (M1)] of         formula (I) as defined above, and     -   a liquid medium [medium (L)].

The membrane of the invention is advantageously obtainable by the process according to this second preferred embodiment of the invention.

The selection of the hydrolysable group Y′ of the compound (M2) of formula (II) as defined above is not particularly limited provided that it enables under appropriate conditions the formation of a —O-A≡ bond. The hydrolysable group Y′ of the compound (M2) of formula (II) as defined above is typically selected from the group consisting of halogen atoms, preferably being a chlorine atom, hydrocarboxy groups, acyloxy groups and hydroxyl groups.

The compound (M2) is preferably of formula (II-A):

R^(C) _(4-m)A′(OR^(D))_(m′)  (II-A)

wherein m′ is an integer from 1 to 3, A′ is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, R^(C), equal to or different from each other and at each occurrence, is a C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbon group comprising at least one —N═C═O functional group and R^(D), equal to or different from each other and at each occurrence, is a C₁-C₅ linear or branched alkyl group, preferably R^(D) being a methyl or ethyl group.

The compound (M2) is more preferably of formula (II-B):

O═C═N—R^(C′)-A′-(OR^(D′))₃  (II-B)

wherein A′ is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, R^(C′), equal to or different from each other and at each occurrence, is a linear or branched C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbon group and R^(D′), equal to or different from each other and at each occurrence, is a C₁-C₅ linear or branched alkyl group, preferably R^(D′) being a methyl or ethyl group.

Non-limiting examples of suitable compounds (M2) include the followings: trimethoxysilyl methyl isocyanate, triethoxysilyl methyl isocyanate, trimethoxysilyl ethyl isocyanate, triethoxysilyl ethyl isocyanate, trimethoxysilyl propyl isocyanate, triethoxysilyl propyl isocyanate, trimethoxysilyl butyl isocyanate, triethoxysilyl butyl isocyanate, trimethoxysilyl pentyl isocyanate, triethoxysilyl pentyl isocyanate, trimethoxysilyl hexyl isocyanate and triethoxysilyl hexyl isocyanate.

Should the compound (M1) of formula (I) as defined above in the membrane according to this second embodiment of the invention be a functional compound (M1), it typically comprises at least one functional group different from the —N═C═O functional group.

The fluoropolymer hybrid organic/inorganic composite [polymer (F-h)] typically comprises, preferably consists of, fluoropolymer domains and inorganic domains, wherein the inorganic domains are obtainable by hydrolysing and/or condensing at least one pendant side chain comprising an end group of formula —O—C(O)—NH—Z-AY_(m)X_(3-m) (M1-g), wherein m, Y, A, X have the same meaning as defined above and Z is a hydrocarbon group, optionally comprising at least one functional group, optionally, at least one pendant side chain comprising an end groups of formula —O-A′Y′_(m′-1)X′_(4-m′)(M2-g), wherein m′, Y′, A′, X′ have the same meaning as defined above.

The membrane of the invention is particularly suitable for use in electrochemical devices, in particular in secondary batteries.

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “secondary battery” is intended to denote a rechargeable battery.

The secondary battery of the invention is preferably a secondary battery based on any of Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Zinc (Zn) and Yttrium (Y).

The secondary battery of the invention is even more preferably a Lithium-ion secondary battery.

In a third instance, the present invention pertains to a process for the manufacture of an electrochemical device, preferably a secondary battery, said process comprising assembling at least one membrane of the invention between a positive electrode [positive electrode (E)] and a negative electrode [negative electrode (E)],

wherein at least one of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) comprises:

-   -   a current collector, and     -   adhered to said current collector, at least one fluoropolymer         layer comprising, preferably consisting of:     -   at least one fluoropolymer [polymer (F)],     -   at least one electro-active compound [compound (EA)],     -   a liquid medium [medium (L)],     -   at least one metal salt [salt (M)],     -   optionally, at least one conductive compound [compound (C)], and     -   optionally, one or more additives.

The Applicant thinks, without this limiting the scope of the invention, that one or more salts (M) and, optionally, one or more additives advantageously migrate from any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) towards the membrane of the invention thereby ensuring good electrochemical performances of the electrochemical device thereby provided.

In a fourth instance, the present invention pertains to an electrochemical device, preferably a secondary battery, comprising at least one membrane of the invention between a positive electrode (E) and a negative electrode (E),

wherein at least one of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) comprises:

-   -   a current collector, and     -   adhered to said current collector, at least one fluoropolymer         layer comprising, preferably consisting of:     -   at least one fluoropolymer [polymer (F)],     -   at least one electro-active compound [compound (EA)],     -   a liquid medium [medium (L)],     -   at least one metal salt [salt (M)],     -   optionally, at least one conductive compound [compound (C)], and     -   optionally, one or more additives.

The medium (L) of the membrane of the invention may be equal to or different from the medium (L) of any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) of the electrochemical device of the invention.

The polymer (F) typically comprises recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer.

The polymer (F) is preferably a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer.

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “partially fluorinated fluoropolymer” is intended to denote a polymer comprising recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer, wherein at least one of said fluorinated monomer and said hydrogenated monomer comprises at least one hydrogen atom.

By the term “fluorinated monomer” it is hereby intended to denote an ethylenically unsaturated monomer comprising at least one fluorine atom.

By the term “hydrogenated monomer” it is hereby intended to denote an ethylenically unsaturated monomer comprising at least one hydrogen atom and free from fluorine atoms.

The term “at least one fluorinated monomer” is understood to mean that the polymer (F) may comprise recurring units derived from one or more than one fluorinated monomers. In the rest of the text, the expression “fluorinated monomers” is understood, for the purposes of the present invention, both in the plural and the singular, that is to say that they denote both one or more than one fluorinated monomers as defined above.

The term “at least one hydrogenated monomer” is understood to mean that the polymer (F) may comprise recurring units derived from one or more than one hydrogenated monomers. In the rest of the text, the expression “hydrogenated monomers” is understood, for the purposes of the present invention, both in the plural and the singular, that is to say that they denote both one or more than one hydrogenated monomers as defined above.

The polymer (F) may be a functional fluoropolymer [functional polymer (F)].

The functional polymer (F) typically comprises recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer and at least one functional hydrogenated monomer.

The polymer (F) is advantageously a linear polymer [polymer (F_(L))] comprising linear sequences of recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer and, optionally, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer.

The polymer (F) is thus typically distinguishable from graft polymers.

The functional polymer (F) is advantageously a random polymer [polymer (F_(R))] comprising linear sequences of randomly distributed recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer and at least one functional hydrogenated monomer.

The expression “randomly distributed recurring units” is intended to denote the percent ratio between the average number of sequences of at least one functional hydrogenated monomers (%), said sequences being comprised between two recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer, and the total average number of recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer (%).

When each of the recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer is isolated, that is to say that a recurring unit derived from a functional hydrogenated monomer is comprised between two recurring units of at least one fluorinated monomer, the average number of sequences of at least one functional hydrogenated monomer equals the average total number of recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer, so that the fraction of randomly distributed recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer is 100%: this value corresponds to a perfectly random distribution of recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer. Thus, the larger is the number of isolated recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer with respect to the total number of recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer, the higher will be the percentage value of fraction of randomly distributed recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer.

The functional polymer (F) is thus typically distinguishable from block polymers.

According to a first embodiment of the invention, the polymer (F) may be a functional polymer (F) comprising recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group.

The functional polymer (F) according to this first embodiment of the invention is particularly suitable for use in the membrane obtainable by the process according to the second embodiment of the invention.

According to a second embodiment of the invention, the polymer (F) may be a functional polymer (F) comprising recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group.

The functional polymer (F) according to this second embodiment of the invention is particularly suitable for use in any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) of the electrochemical device of the invention.

The polymer (F) is typically obtainable by polymerization of at least one fluorinated monomer.

The functional polymer (F) is typically obtainable by polymerization of at least one fluorinated monomer and at least one functional hydrogenated monomer.

According to the first embodiment of the invention, the functional polymer (F) is typically obtainable by polymerization of at least one fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group.

According to the second embodiment of the invention, the functional polymer (F) is typically obtainable by polymerization of at least one fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group.

Should the fluorinated monomer comprise at least one hydrogen atom, it is designated as hydrogen-containing fluorinated monomer.

Should the fluorinated monomer be free of hydrogen atoms, it is designated as per(halo)fluorinated monomer.

The fluorinated monomer may further comprise one or more other halogen atoms (Cl, Br, I).

Non-limiting examples of suitable fluorinated monomers include, notably, the followings:

-   -   C₂-C₈ perfluoroolefins such as tetrafluoroethylene and         hexafluoropropylene;     -   C₂-C₈ hydrogenated fluoroolefins such as vinylidene fluoride,         vinyl fluoride, 1,2-difluoroethylene and trifluoroethylene;     -   perfluoroalkylethylenes of formula CH₂═CH—R_(f0) wherein R_(f0)         is a C₁-C₆ perfluoroalkyl;     -   chloro- and/or bromo- and/or iodo-C₂-C₆ fluoroolefins such as         chlorotrifluoroethylene;     -   (per)fluoroalkylvinylethers of formula CF₂═CFOR_(f1) wherein         R_(f1) is a C₁-C₆ fluoro- or perfluoroalkyl, e.g., CF₃, C₂F₅,         C₃F₇;     -   CF₂═CFOX₀ (per)fluoro-oxyalkylvinylethers wherein X₀ is a C₁-C₁₂         alkyl group, a C₁-C₁₂ oxyalkyl group or a C₁-C₁₂         (per)fluorooxyalkyl group having one or more ether groups, such         as perfluoro-2-propoxy-propyl group;     -   (per)fluoroalkylvinylethers of formula CF₂═CFOCF₂OR_(f2) wherein         R_(f2) is a C₁-C₆ fluoro- or perfluoroalkyl group, e.g. CF₃,         C₂F₅, C₃F₇ or a C₁-C₆ (per)fluorooxyalkyl group having one or         more ether groups such as —C₂F₅—O—CF₃;     -   functional (per)fluoro-oxyalkylvinylethers of formula CF₂═CFOY₀         wherein Y₀ is a C₁-C₁₂ alkyl group or (per)fluoroalkyl group, a         C₁-C₁₂ oxyalkyl group or a C₁-C₁₂ (per)fluorooxyalkyl group         having one or more ether groups and Y₀ comprising a carboxylic         or sulfonic acid group, in its acid, acid halide or salt form;     -   fluorodioxoles, preferably perfluorodioxoles.

Should the fluorinated monomer be a hydrogen-containing fluorinated monomer such as, for instance, vinylidene fluoride, trifluoroethylene or vinyl fluoride, the polymer (F) is either a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from at least one hydrogen-containing fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group and, optionally, at least one fluorinated monomer different from said hydrogen-containing fluorinated monomer or it is a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from at least one hydrogen-containing fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group, optionally, at least one fluorinated monomer different from said hydrogen-containing fluorinated monomer and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group.

Should the fluorinated monomer be a per(halo)fluorinated monomer such as, for instance, tetrafluoroethylene, chlorotrifluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene or a perfluoroalkylvinylether, the polymer (F) is a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from at least one per(halo)fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group and, optionally, at least one fluorinated monomer different from said per(halo)fluorinated monomer.

The polymer (F) may be amorphous or semi-crystalline.

The term “amorphous” is hereby intended to denote a polymer (F) having a heat of fusion of less than 5 J/g, preferably of less than 3 J/g, more preferably of less than 2 J/g, as measured according to ASTM D-3418-08.

The term “semi-crystalline” is hereby intended to denote a polymer (F) having a heat of fusion of from 10 to 90 J/g, preferably of from 30 to 60 J/g, more preferably of from 35 to 55 J/g, as measured according to ASTM D3418-08.

The polymer (F) is preferably semi-crystalline.

The polymer (F) comprises preferably at least 0.01% by moles, more preferably at least 0.05% by moles, even more preferably at least 0.1% by moles of recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer.

The polymer (F) comprises preferably at most 20% by moles, more preferably at most 15% by moles, even more preferably at most 10% by moles, most preferably at most 3% by moles of recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer.

Determination of average mole percentage of recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer in the functional polymer (F) can be performed by any suitable method. Mention can be notably made of acid-base titration methods or NMR methods.

The functional polymer (F) is preferably a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from vinylidene fluoride (VDF), at least one functional hydrogenated monomer and, optionally, at least one fluorinated monomer different from VDF.

According to the first embodiment of the invention, the functional polymer (F) is preferably a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from vinylidene fluoride (VDF), at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group and, optionally, at least one fluorinated monomer different from VDF.

The functional polymer (F) of this first embodiment of the invention more preferably comprises recurring units derived from:

-   -   at least 60% by moles, preferably at least 75% by moles, more         preferably at least 85% by moles of vinylidene fluoride (VDF),     -   from 0.01% to 20% by moles, preferably from 0.05% to 15% by         moles, more preferably from 0.1% to 10% by moles of at least one         functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl         end group, and     -   optionally, from 0.1% to 15% by moles, preferably from 0.1% to         12% by moles, more preferably from 0.1% to 10% by moles of at         least one fluorinated monomer selected from vinyl fluoride         (VF₁), chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE), hexafluoropropylene         (HFP), tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), trifluoroethylene (TrFE) and         perfluoromethylvinylether (PMVE).

The functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group is preferably selected from the group consisting of (meth)acrylic monomers of formula (III) and vinylether monomers of formula (IV):

wherein each of R₁, R₂ and R₃, equal to or different from each other, is independently a hydrogen atom or a C₁-C₃ hydrocarbon group, and R_(X) is a C₁-C₅ hydrocarbon moiety comprising at least one hydroxyl group.

The functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group is more preferably of formula (III) as defined above.

The functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group is even more preferably of formula (III-A):

wherein R′₁, R′₂ and R′₃ are hydrogen atoms and R′_(X) is a C₁-C₅ hydrocarbon moiety comprising at least one hydroxyl group.

Non-limiting examples of functional hydrogenated monomers comprising at least one hydroxyl end group include, notably, hydroxyethyl(meth)acrylate, hydroxypropyl(meth)acrylate, hydroxyethylhexyl(meth)acrylate.

The functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group is even more preferably selected from the followings:

-   -   hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) of formula:

-   -   2-hydroxypropyl acrylate (HPA) of either of formulae:

-   -   and mixtures thereof.

According to the second embodiment of the invention, the functional polymer (F) is preferably a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from vinylidene fluoride (VDF), at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group and, optionally, at least one fluorinated monomer different from VDF.

The functional polymer (F) of this second embodiment of the invention more preferably comprises recurring units derived from:

-   -   at least 60% by moles, preferably at least 75% by moles, more         preferably at least 85% by moles of vinylidene fluoride (VDF),     -   from 0.01% to 20% by moles, preferably from 0.05% to 15% by         moles, more preferably from 0.1% to 10% by moles of at least one         functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one         carboxylic acid end group, and     -   optionally, from 0.1% to 15% by moles, preferably from 0.1% to         12% by moles, more preferably from 0.1% to 10% by moles of at         least one fluorinated monomer selected from vinyl fluoride         (VF₁), chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE), hexafluoropropylene         (HFP), tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), trifluoroethylene (TrFE) and         perfluoromethylvinylether (PMVE).

The functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group is preferably selected from the group consisting of (meth)acrylic monomers of formula (V):

wherein each of R₁, R₂ and R₃, equal to or different from each other, is independently a hydrogen atom or a C₁-C₃ hydrocarbon group.

Non-limiting examples of functional hydrogenated monomers comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group include, notably, acrylic acid and methacrylic acid.

The polymer (F) is typically obtainable by emulsion polymerization or suspension polymerization.

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “electro-active compound [compound (EA)]” is intended to denote a compound which is able to incorporate or insert into its structure and substantially release therefrom alkaline or alkaline-earth metal ions during the charging phase and the discharging phase of an electrochemical device. The compound (EA) is preferably able to incorporate or insert and release Lithium ions.

The nature of the compound (EA) of the layer (L1) of the electrode (E) of the invention depends on whether the electrode (E) thereby provided is a positive electrode [positive electrode (E)] or a negative electrode [negative electrode (E)].

In the case of forming a positive electrode (E) for a Lithium-ion secondary battery, the compound (EA) may comprise a composite metal chalcogenide of formula LiMQ₂, wherein M is at least one metal selected from transition metals such as Co, Ni, Fe, Mn, Cr and V and Q is a chalcogen such as O or S. Among these, it is preferred to use a Lithium-based composite metal oxide of formula LiMO₂, wherein M is the same as defined above. Preferred examples thereof may include LiCoO₂, LiNiO₂, LiNi_(x)Co_(1-x)O₂ (0<x<1) and spinel-structured LiMn₂O₄.

As an alternative, still in the case of forming a positive (E) for a Lithium-ion secondary battery, the compound (EA) may comprise a lithiated or partially lithiated transition metal oxyanion-based electro-active material of formula M₁M₂(JO₄)_(f)E_(1-f), wherein M₁ is Lithium, which may be partially substituted by another alkali metal representing less than 20% of the M₁ metals, M₂ is a transition metal at the oxidation level of +2 selected from Fe, Mn, Ni or mixtures thereof, which may be partially substituted by one or more additional metals at oxidation levels between +1 and +5 and representing less than 35% of the M₂ metals, including 0, JO₄ is any oxyanion wherein J is either P, S, V, Si, Nb, Mo or a combination thereof, E is a fluoride, hydroxide or chloride anion, f is the molar fraction of the JO₄ oxyanion, generally comprised between 0.75 and 1.

The M₁M₂(JO₄)_(f)E_(1-f) electro-active material as defined above is preferably phosphate-based and may have an ordered or modified olivine structure.

More preferably, the compound (EA) has formula Li_(3-x)M′_(y)M″_(2-y)(JO₄)₃ wherein 0≤x≤3, 0≤y≤2, M′ and M″ are the same or different metals, at least one of which being a transition metal, JO₄ is preferably PO₄ which may be partially substituted with another oxyanion, wherein J is either S, V, Si, Nb, Mo or a combination thereof. Still more preferably, the compound (EA) is a phosphate-based electro-active material of formula Li(Fe_(x)Mn_(1-x))PO₄ wherein 0≤x≤1, wherein x is preferably 1 (that is to say, Lithium iron phosphate of formula LiFePO₄).

In the case of forming a negative electrode (E) for a Lithium-ion secondary battery, the compound (EA) may preferably comprise:

-   -   graphitic carbons able to intercalate Lithium, typically         existing in forms such as powders, flakes, fibers or spheres         (for example, mesocarbon microbeads) hosting Lithium;     -   Lithium metal;     -   Lithium alloy compositions, including notably those described in         U.S. Pat. No. 6,203,944 (3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES CO.) 20 Mar.         2001 and/or in WO 00/03444 (MINNESOTA MINING AND MANUFACTURING         CO.) 20 Jan. 2000;     -   Lithium titanates, generally represented by formula Li₄Ti₅O₁₂;         these compounds are generally considered as “zero-strain”         insertion materials, having low level of physical expansion upon         taking up the mobile ions, i.e. Li⁺;     -   Lithium-silicon alloys, generally known as Lithium silicides         with high Li/Si ratios, in particular Lithium silicides of         formula Li_(4.4)Si;     -   Lithium-germanium alloys, including crystalline phases of         formula Li_(4.4)Ge.

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “liquid medium [medium (L)]” is intended to denote a medium comprising one or more substances in the liquid state at 20° C. under atmospheric pressure.

The medium (L) is typically free from one or more solvents (S).

The amount of the medium (L) in the membrane of the invention is typically at least 40% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, based on the total weight of said medium (L) and the at least one polymer (F).

The amount of the medium (L) in the membrane of the invention is typically at least 40% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, based on the total weight of said medium (L) and the at least one polymer (F-h).

The amount of the medium (L) in any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) of the electrochemical device of the invention is typically at least 40% by weight, preferably at least 50% by weight, more preferably at least 60% by weight, based on the total weight of said medium (L) and the at least one polymer (F).

The medium (L) advantageously comprises, preferably consists of, at least one organic carbonate and, optionally, at least one ionic liquid.

Non-limiting examples of suitable organic carbonates include, notably, ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, mixtures of ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, ethyl-methyl carbonate, butylene carbonate, vinylene carbonate, fluoroethylene carbonate, fluoropropylene carbonate and mixtures thereof.

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “ionic liquid” is intended to denote a compound formed by the combination of a positively charged cation and a negatively charged anion in the liquid state at temperatures below 100° C. under atmospheric pressure.

The ionic liquid typically contains:

-   -   a positively charged cation selected from the group consisting         of imidazolium, pyridinium, pyrrolidinium and piperidinium ions         optionally containing one or more C₁-C₃₀ alkyl groups, and     -   a negatively charged anion selected from the group consisting of         halides, perfluorinated anions and borates.

Non-limiting examples of C₁-C₃₀ alkyl groups include, notably, methyl, ethyl, propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, sec-butyl, t-butyl, pentyl, isopentyl, 2,2-dimethyl-propyl, hexyl, 2,3-dimethyl-2-butyl, heptyl, 2,2-dimethyl-3-pentyl, 2-methyl-2-hexyl, octyl, 4-methyl-3-heptyl, nonyl, decyl, undecyl and dodecyl groups.

The positively charged cation of the ionic liquid is preferably selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   a pyrrolidinium cation of formula (VI):

wherein R₁₁ and R₂₂, equal to or different from each other, independently represent a C₁-C₈ alkyl group and R₃₃, R₄₄, R₅₅ and R₆₆, equal to or different from each other, independently represent a hydrogen atom or a C₁-C₃₀ alkyl group, preferably a C₁-C₁₈ alkyl group, more preferably a C₁-C₈ alkyl group, and

-   -   a piperidinium cation of formula (VII):

wherein R₁₁ and R₂₂, equal to or different from each other, independently represent a C₁-C₈ alkyl group and R₃₃, R₄₄, R₅₅, R₆₆ and R₇₇, equal to or different from each other, independently represent a hydrogen atom or a C₁-C₃₀ alkyl group, preferably a C₁-C₁₈ alkyl group, more preferably a C₁-C₈ alkyl group.

The positively charged cation of the ionic liquid is more preferably selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   a pyrrolidinium cation of formula (VI-A):

-   -   a piperidinium cation of formula (VII-A):

The negatively charged anion of the ionic liquid is preferably selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   bis(trifluoromethylsulphonyl)imide of formula (SO₂CF₃)₂N⁻,     -   hexafluorophosphate of formula PF₆ ⁻,     -   tetrafluoroborate of formula BF₄ ⁻, and     -   oxaloborate of formula:

The ionic liquid even more preferably contains a pyrrolidinium cation of formula (VI-A) as defined above and a perfluorinated anion selected from the group consisting of bis(trifluoromethylsulphonyl)imide of formula (SO₂CF₃)₂N⁻, hexafluorophosphate of formula PF₆ ⁻ and tetrafluoroborate of formula BF₄ ⁻.

The salt (M) is typically selected from the group consisting of:

(a) MeI, Me(PF₆)_(n), Me(BF₄)_(n), Me(ClO₄)_(n), Me(bis(oxalato)borate)_(n) (“Me(BOB)_(n)”), MeCF₃SO₃, Me[N(CF₃SO₂)₂]_(n), Me[N(C₂F₅SO₂)₂]_(n), Me[N(CF₃SO₂)(R_(F)SO₂)]_(n), wherein R_(F) is C₂F₅, C₄F₉ or CF₃OCF₂CF₂, Me(AsF₆)_(n), Me[C(CF₃SO₂)₃]_(n), Me₂S_(n), wherein Me is a metal, preferably a transition metal, an alkaline metal or an alkaline-earth metal, more preferably Me being Li, Na, K or Cs, even more preferably Me being Li, and n is the valence of said metal, typically n being 1 or 2,

wherein R′_(F) is selected from the group consisting of F, CF₃, CHF₂, CH₂F, C₂HF₄, C₂H₂F₃, C₂H₃F₂, C₂F₅, C₃F₇, C₃H₂F₅, C₃H₄F₃, C₄F₉, C₄H₂F₇, C₄H₄F₅, C₅F₁₁, C₃F₅OCF₃, C₂F₄OCF₃, C₂H₂F₂OCF₃ and CF₂OCF₃, and (c) combinations thereof.

The concentration of the salt (M) in the medium (L) of any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) of the electrochemical device of the invention is advantageously at least 0.01 M, preferably at least 0.025 M, more preferably at least 0.05 M.

The concentration of the salt (M) in the medium (L) of any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) of the electrochemical device of the invention is advantageously at most 3 M, preferably at most 2 M, more preferably at most 1 M.

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “conductive compound [compound (C)]” is intended to denote a compound able to impart electron conductivity to the electrode.

The compound (C) is typically selected from the group consisting of carbonaceous materials such as carbon black, carbon nanotubes, graphite powder, graphite fiber and metal powders or fibers such as nickel and aluminium powders or fibers.

Any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) of the electrochemical device of the invention may further comprise one or more additives, preferably in an amount of from 0.1% to 10% by weight, more preferably from 0.5% to 7% by weight, based on the weight of the medium (L).

Any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) of the electrochemical device of the invention may further comprise one or more additives such as vinylene carbonate, vinyl ethylene carbonate, allyl ethyl carbonate, vinyl acetate, divinyl adipate, acrylic acid nitrile, 2-vinyl pyridine, maleic anhydride, methyl cinnamate, alkyl phosphonates, and vinyl-containing silane-based compounds.

Any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) is preferably a flexible electrode (E), wherein the current collector comprises, preferably consists of, a polymer substrate and, adhered to said polymer substrate, an electrically conductive layer.

The flexible electrode (E) advantageously ensures both outstanding mechanical flexibility and outstanding electrochemical performances of the electrochemical device thereby provided.

The polymer substrate of the current collector of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention typically comprises, preferably consists of, at least one semi-crystalline polymer.

For the purpose of the present invention, the term “semi-crystalline” is intended to denote a polymer having a heat of fusion of from 10 to 90 J/g, preferably of from 30 to 60 J/g, more preferably of from 35 to 55 J/g, as measured according to ASTM D3418-08.

The polymer substrate of the current collector of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention preferably comprises, more preferably consists of, at least one semi-crystalline polymer having a melting point higher than 130° C., preferably higher than 150° C., more preferably higher than 200° C.

The polymer substrate of the current collector of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention more preferably comprises, even more preferably consists of, at least one semi-crystalline polymer selected from the group consisting of halopolymers such as polyvinylidene chloride, fluoropolymers, polyesters, polyolefins such as polypropylenes, polyamides such as aromatic polyamides and polycarbonates.

Non-limiting examples of suitable fluoropolymers include partially fluorinated fluoropolymers comprising recurring units derived from at least one hydrogen-containing fluorinated monomer such as vinylidene fluoride (VDF) or at least one per(halo)fluorinated monomer such as chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE) and/or tetrafluoroethylene (TFE).

The polymer substrate of the current collector of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention more preferably comprises, even more preferably consists of, at least one partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from:

-   -   at least one per(halo)fluorinated monomer selected from the         group consisting of tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) and         chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE),     -   at least one hydrogenated monomer selected from ethylene,         propylene and isobutylene, and     -   optionally, one or more additional monomers, typically in         amounts of from 0.1% to 30% by moles, based on the total amount         of TFE and/or CTFE and said hydrogenated monomer(s).

The polymer substrate of the current collector of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention even more preferably comprises, still more preferably consists of, at least one partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising:

-   -   from 35% to 65%, preferably from 45% to 55% by moles of ethylene         (E),     -   from 65% to 35%, preferably from 55% to 45% by moles of at least         one of chlorotrifluoroethylene (CTFE) and tetrafluoroethylene         (TFE) or a mixture thereof, and     -   optionally, from 0.1% to 30% by moles, based on the total amount         of TFE and/or CTFE and ethylene, of one or more additional         monomers.

The electrically conductive layer of the current collector of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention typically comprises, preferably consists of, Carbon (C) or Silicon (Si) or at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Zinc (Zn), Magnesium (Mg), Copper (Cu), Aluminium (Al), Nickel (Ni), Titanium (Ti) and alloys thereof including, but not limited to, stainless steel.

The electrically conductive layer of the current collector of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention is typically in the form of a foil, mesh or net.

The fluoropolymer layer of the flexible electrode (E) of the invention typically has a thickness comprised between 10 μm and 500 μm, preferably between 50 μm and 250 μm, more preferably between 70 μm and 150 μm.

The nature of the current collector of the electrode (E) of the invention depends on whether the electrode (E) thereby provided is a positive electrode (E) or a negative electrode (E).

Should the electrode (E) of the invention be a positive electrode (E), the current collector typically comprises, preferably consists of, Carbon (C) or at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Aluminium (Al), Nickel (Ni), Titanium (Ti) and alloys thereof.

Should the electrode (E) of the invention be a positive electrode (E), the current collector preferably consists of Aluminium (Al).

Should the electrode (E) of the invention be a negative electrode (E), the current collector typically comprises, preferably consists of, Carbon (C) or Silicon (Si) or at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Lithium (Li), Sodium (Na), Zinc (Zn), Magnesium (Mg), Copper (Cu) and alloys thereof.

Should the electrode (E) of the invention be a negative electrode (E), the current collector preferably consists of Copper (Cu).

The flexible electrode (E) is typically obtainable by a process comprising:

(i) providing a current collector comprising, preferably consisting of, a polymer substrate and, adhered to said polymer substrate, an electrically conductive layer, (ii) providing an electrode-forming composition comprising, preferably consisting of:

-   -   at least one fluoropolymer [polymer (F)],     -   at least one electro-active compound [compound (EA)],     -   a liquid medium [medium (L)],     -   at least one organic solvent [solvent (S)] different from said         medium (L),     -   optionally, at least one metal salt [salt (M)],     -   optionally, at least one conductive compound [compound (C)], and     -   optionally, one or more additives,         (iii) applying the electrode-forming composition provided in         step (ii) onto the electrically conductive layer of the current         collector provided in step (i) thereby providing an electrode         [electrode (E)], and         (iv) evaporating said at least one solvent (S) from the         electrode (E) provided in step (iii).

The choice of the solvent (S) is not particularly limited provided that it is suitable for solubilising the polymer (F).

The solvent (S) is typically selected from the group consisting of:

-   -   alcohols such as methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol and diacetone         alcohol,     -   ketones such as acetone, methylethylketone, methylisobutyl         ketone, diisobutylketone, cyclohexanone and isophorone,     -   linear or cyclic esters such as isopropyl acetate, n-butyl         acetate, methyl acetoacetate, dimethyl phthalate and         γ-butyrolactone,     -   linear or cyclic amides such as N,N-diethylacetamide,         N,N-dimethylacetamide, dimethylformamide and         N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, and     -   dimethyl sulfoxide.

The current collector provided in step (i) of the process of the invention is typically manufactured by applying an electrically conductive layer onto a polymer substrate, preferably by any suitable procedures such as lamination, preferably co-lamination, typically using a double side adhesive tape, hot embossing, coating, printing, plating using vacuum techniques such as physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition and direct evaporation.

Under step (iii) of the process of the invention, the electrode-forming composition is applied onto the electrically conductive layer of the current collector typically by any suitable procedures such as casting, printing and roll coating.

Optionally, step (iii) may be repeated, typically one or more times, by applying the electrode-forming composition provided in step (iii) onto the electrode (E) provided in step (iv).

Under step (iv) of the process of the invention, drying may be performed either under atmospheric pressure or under vacuum. Alternatively, drying may be performed under modified atmosphere, e.g. under an inert gas, typically exempt notably from moisture (water vapor content of less than 0.001% v/v).

The drying temperature will be selected so as to effect removal by evaporation of one or more solvents (S) from the electrode (E) of the invention.

The electrode (E) of the invention is preferably free from one or more solvents (S).

Should the disclosure of any patents, patent applications, and publications which are incorporated herein by reference conflict with the description of the present application to the extent that it may render a term unclear, the present description shall take precedence.

The invention will be now described in more detail with reference to the following examples whose purpose is merely illustrative and not limitative of the scope of the invention.

Raw Materials

Polymer (F-A): VDF-AA (0.9% by moles)-HFP (2.4% by moles) polymer having an intrinsic viscosity of 0.301/g in DMF at 25° C.

Polymer (F-B): VDF-HEA (0.8% by moles)-HFP (2.4% by moles) polymer having an intrinsic viscosity of 0.081/g in DMF at 25° C.

Graphite: 75% SMG HE2-20 (Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd.)/25% TIMREX® SFG 6.

LiPF₆: Lithium hexafluorophosphate salt.

LiTFSI: bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide Lithium salt.

LiTDI: Lithium 4,5-dicyano-2-(trifluoromethyl)imidazole.

LFP: LiFePO₄.

NMC: LiNi_(0.33)Mn_(0.33)Co_(0.33)O₂, commercially available from Umicore.

TEOS: tetraethoxysilane.

TSPI: 3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl isocyanate.

DBTDL: dibutyl tin dilaurate.

Determination of Intrinsic Viscosity of Polymer (F)

Intrinsic viscosity (η) [dl/g] was measured using the following equation on the basis of dropping time, at 25° C., of a solution obtained by dissolving the polymer (F) in N,N-dimethylformamide at a concentration of about 0.2 g/dl using a Ubbelhode viscosimeter:

$\lbrack\eta\rbrack = \frac{\eta_{sp} + {{\Gamma \cdot \ln}\mspace{11mu} \eta_{r}}}{\left( {1 + \Gamma} \right) \cdot c}$

where c is polymer concentration [g/dl], η_(r) is the relative viscosity, i.e. the ratio between the dropping time of sample solution and the dropping time of solvent, η_(sp) is the specific viscosity, i.e. η_(r)−1, and Γ is an experimental factor, which corresponds to 3 for polymer (F). General Procedure from the Manufacture of the Li-Ion Battery Components

Preparation of the Liquid Medium (L-A)

A liquid medium was prepared by dispersing 5% by weight of vinylene carbonate (VC) in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) in a volume ratio of 1:1.

Preparation of the Liquid Medium (L-B)

A liquid medium was prepared by dispersing 5% by weight of vinylene carbonate (VC) in a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) in a volume ratio of 1:1.

Preparation of the Electrolyte Medium (E-A)

An electrolyte medium was prepared by dissolving LiPF₆ (2.4 mol/l) in a liquid medium containing a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) in a volume ratio of 1:1 and 5% by weight of vinylene carbonate (VC).

Preparation of the Electrolyte Medium (E-B)

An electrolyte medium was prepared by dissolving LiTFSI (2.4 mol/l) in a liquid medium containing a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) in a volume ratio of 1:1 and 2% by weight of vinylene carbonate (VC).

Preparation of the Electrolyte Medium (E-C)

An electrolyte medium was prepared by dissolving LiTDI (1.2 mol/l) in a liquid medium containing a mixture of ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) in a volume ratio of 1:1 and 2% by weight of vinylene carbonate (VC).

Manufacture of the Membrane

The polymer (F-B) was dissolved in acetone at 60° C. during 30 minutes. DBTDL (10% by moles vs. TSPI added in the next step) was added thereto and the solution so obtained was homogenized at 60° C. during 30 minutes. TSPI (1.1 mol. % vs. polymer (F-B)) was added thereto and the solution so obtained was homogenized at 60° C. during two hours.

Any of the liquid medium (L-A) or the liquid medium (L-B) (66% by weight vs. polymer (F-B)) was added thereto and the solution so obtained was homogenized at 60° C. during 30 minutes. Formic acid (n=4.9×n TEOS added in next step) was then added thereto and the solution so obtained was homogenized at 60° C. during 30 minutes.

TEOS (10% SiO₂ vs. polymer (F-B)) was finally added thereto and the solution so obtained was homogenized at 60° C. during 30 minutes.

The membrane was prepared under Argon atmosphere and coated in a dry room (dew point −40° C.) by tape casting at 250 μm wet thickness onto a PET foil.

Manufacture of the Graphite-Based Negative Electrode

A solution containing the polymer (F-A), graphite, a liquid medium, with or without at least one metal salt, and acetone was prepared in a glove box under Argon atmosphere (O₂<2 ppm, H₂O<2 ppm).

The slurry so obtained was further stirred by a magnetic bar in a closed vial during 30 minutes. The slurry was tape casted in a dry room (dew point: −40° C.) onto a Cu foil having a thickness of 10 μm at a specific wet thickness in order to reach the targeted electrode loading.

Manufacture of the Positive Electrode

The active material powder was mixed with a blend of conductive compounds consisting of 50% by weight of C-NERGY® SUPER C65 carbon black and 50% by weight of VGCF® carbon fiber (CF).

A solution containing the polymer (F-A), a liquid medium, with or without at least one metal salt, and acetone was then added to this mixture in a glove box under Argon atmosphere (O₂<2 ppm, H₂O<2 ppm).

The slurry so obtained was further stirred by a magnetic bar in a closed vial during 30 minutes. The slurry was tape casted in a dry room (dew point: −40° C.) onto an Al foil having a thickness of 20 μm at a specific wet thickness in order to reach the targeted electrode loading.

Coin Cell Testing

The electrodes were cut in the form of disks thanks to a specific punch with a diameter of 14 mm and 16 mm for the positive and the negative electrode, respectively. The membrane was cut at a diameter of 16.5 mm. The evaluation of the system was performed in a coin cell configuration. The coin cells were manufactured by stacking the membrane between the electrodes in a glove box under Argon atmosphere with less than 10 ppm of H₂O.

EXAMPLES Example 1: Manufacture of a Lithium-Ion Battery

A coin cell was manufactured by assembling the membrane prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the liquid medium (L-A) between the negative electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the liquid medium (L-A) (4.9 mAh/cm²) and the positive electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the electrolyte medium (E-A) containing 2.4 M LiPF₆ (3.3 mAh/cm²).

The coin cell so obtained was cycled between 2.8 V and 4.15 V. After a step of 2 cycles at C/20-D/20, the test protocol was carried out according to successive series of 5 cycles at C/10-D/10, C/5-D/5, C/2-D/2, C/2-D, C/2-2D.

The discharge capacity values of the coin cell under different discharge rates are set forth in Table 1 here below.

TABLE 1 Average Discharge C-Rate [mAh/g] 0.05 Discharge D/20 125 0.1 Discharge D/10 118 0.2 Discharge D/5 111 0.5 Discharge D/2 94 1 Discharge D 74 2 Discharge 2D 42 0.05 Discharge D/20 117

Example 2: Manufacture of a Li-Ion Battery

A coin cell was manufactured by assembling the membrane prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the liquid medium (L-A) between the negative electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the electrolyte medium (E-A) containing 2.4 M LiPF₆ (1.8 mAh/cm²) and the positive electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the liquid medium (L-A) (1.6 mAh/cm²).

The coin cell so obtained was cycled between 2.6 V and 3.7 V.

After a step of 2 cycles at C/20-D/20, the test protocol was carried out according to successive series of 5 cycles at C/10-D/10, C/5-D/5, C/2-D/2, C/2-D, C/2-2D.

The discharge capacity values of the coin cell under different discharge rates are set forth in Table 2 here below.

TABLE 2 Average Discharge C-Rate [mAh/g] 0.05 Discharge D/20 114 0.1 Discharge D/10 108 0.2 Discharge D/5 103 0.5 Discharge D/2 94 1 Discharge D 83 2 Discharge 2D 36 0.05 Discharge D/20 102

Example 3: Manufacture of a Li-Ion Battery

A coin cell was manufactured by assembling the membrane prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the liquid medium (L-B) between the negative electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the liquid medium (L-B) and the positive electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the electrolyte medium (E-B) containing 2.4 M LiTFSI (1.6 mAh/cm²).

The coin cell so obtained was cycled between 2.6 V and 3.7 V.

After a step of 2 cycles at C/20-D/20, the test protocol was carried out according to successive series of 5 cycles at C/10-D/10, C/5-D/5, C/2-D/2, C/2-D, C/2-2D.

The discharge capacity values of the coin cell under different discharge rates are set forth in Table 3 here below.

TABLE 3 Average Discharge C-Rate [mAh/g] 0.05 Discharge D/20 88 0.1 Discharge D/10 85 0.2 Discharge D/5 83 0.5 Discharge D/2 79 1 Discharge D 76 2 Discharge 2D 56 0.05 Discharge D/20 79

Example 4: Manufacture of a Li-Ion Battery

A coin cell was manufactured by assembling the membrane prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the liquid medium (L-B) between the negative electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the electrolyte medium (E-C) containing 1.2 M LiTDI (1.6 mAh/cm²) and the positive electrode prepared according to the general procedure as detailed hereinabove using the electrolyte medium (E-C) containing 1.2 M LiTDI (1.6 mAh/cm²).

The coin cell so obtained was cycled between 2.8 V and 4.15 V.

After a step of 2 cycles at C/20-D/20, the test protocol was carried out according to successive series of 5 cycles at C/10-D/10, C/5-D/5, C/2-D/2, C/2-D, C/2-2D.

The discharge capacity values of the coin cell under different discharge rates are set forth in Table 4 here below.

TABLE 4 Average Discharge C-Rate [mAh/g] 0.05 Discharge D/20 133 0.1 Discharge D/10 131 0.2 Discharge D/5 126 0.5 Discharge D/2 107 1 Discharge D 96 2 Discharge 2D 53 0.05 Discharge D/20 130

In view of the above, it has been found that the electrochemical device of the invention advantageously exhibits outstanding electrochemical performances due to migration of at least one metal salt contained in at least one of the electrodes towards the membrane of the invention, in spite of the absence of any metal salt and, optionally, one or more additives in said membrane. 

1. A membrane for an electrochemical device, said membrane consisting of: at least one polymer (F), wherein polymer (F) is a fluoropolymer, and a liquid medium (L), said membrane being free from one or more metal salts and, optionally, one or more additives.
 2. The membrane according to claim 1, wherein polymer (F) is a fluoropolymer hybrid organic/inorganic composite.
 3. The membrane according to claim 1, wherein the amount of medium (L) is at least 40% by weight, based on the total weight of said medium (L) and the at least one polymer (F).
 4. The membrane according to claim 1, wherein medium (L) comprises at least one organic carbonate and, optionally, at least one ionic liquid.
 5. A process for the manufacture of the membrane according to claim 1, said process comprising hydrolysing and/or condensing a composition comprising: at least one polymer (F), at least one metal compound (M) of formula (I): X_(4-m)AY_(m)  (I) wherein m is an integer from 1 to 4, A is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, Y is a hydrolysable group and X is a hydrocarbon group, optionally comprising one or more functional groups, and medium (L).
 6. A process for the manufacture of the membrane according to claim 1, said process comprising hydrolysing and/or condensing a composition comprising: at least one functional polymer (F), wherein functional polymer (F) is a functional fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group, at least one metal compound (M2) of formula (II): X′_(4-m′)A′Y′_(m′)  (II) wherein m′ is an integer from 1 to 3, A′ is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, Y′ is a hydrolysable group and X′ is a hydrocarbon group comprising at least one —N═C═O functional group, optionally, at least one metal compound (M1) of formula (I): X_(4-m)AY_(m)  (I) wherein m is an integer from 1 to 4, A is a metal selected from the group consisting of Si, Ti and Zr, Y is a hydrolysable group and X is a hydrocarbon group, optionally comprising one or more functional groups, and medium (L).
 7. The process according to claim 6, wherein functional polymer (F) comprises recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group.
 8. The process according to claim 6, wherein functional polymer (F) is a partially fluorinated fluoropolymer comprising recurring units derived from vinylidene fluoride (VDF), at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one hydroxyl end group and, optionally, at least one fluorinated monomer different from VDF.
 9. The process according to claim 6, wherein the functional hydrogenated monomer is of formula (III-A):

wherein R′₁, R′₂ and R′₃ are hydrogen atoms and R′_(x) is a C₁-C₅ hydrocarbon moiety comprising at least one hydroxyl group.
 10. An electrochemical device comprising the membrane according to claim
 1. 11. An electrochemical device comprising at least one membrane according to claim 1 between a positive electrode (E) and a negative electrode (E), wherein at least one of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) comprises: a current collector, and adhered to said current collector, at least one fluoropolymer layer comprising: at least one polymer (F), wherein polymer (F) is a fluoropolymer, at least one electro-active compound (EA), a liquid medium (L), at least one metal salt (M), optionally, at least one conductive compound (C), and optionally, one or more additives.
 12. The electrochemical device according to claim 11, wherein polymer (F) in any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) is a functional polymer (F) comprising recurring units derived from at least one fluorinated monomer, at least one functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group and, optionally, at least one hydrogenated monomer different from said functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group.
 13. The electrochemical device according to claim 12, wherein the functional hydrogenated monomer comprising at least one carboxylic acid end group is selected from the group consisting of (meth)acrylic monomers of formula (V):

wherein each of R₁, R₂ and R₃, equal to or different from each other, is independently a hydrogen atom or a C₁-C₃ hydrocarbon group.
 14. The electrochemical device according to claim 11, wherein any of the positive electrode (E) and the negative electrode (E) is a flexible electrode (E), wherein the current collector comprises a polymer substrate and, adhered to said polymer substrate, an electrically conductive layer.
 15. The membrane according to claim 3, wherein the amount of medium (L) is at least 50% by weight, based on the total weight of said medium (L) and the at least one polymer (F).
 16. The membrane according to claim 3, wherein the amount of medium (L) is at least 60% by weight, based on the total weight of said medium (L) and the at least one polymer (F).
 17. The membrane according to claim 4, wherein medium (L) consists of at least one organic carbonate and, optionally, at least one ionic liquid.
 18. The process according to claim 5, wherein the composition consists of: at least one polymer (F), at least one compound (M), and medium (L).
 19. The process according to claim 6, wherein the composition consists of: at least one functional polymer (F), at least one compound (M2), optionally, at least one compound (M1), and medium (L). 